International Year of the Periodic Table 2019

Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre, Mauritius

7 March 2019

Dr. Arjoon Suddhoo

Dr. Atchia

Dr. Maulloo Aman Kumar

Prof. Archana

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you very much for inviting me here today to commemorate the International Day of Periodic Table. While my statement was not planned for the occasion, I am tempted to say a few words on this occasion.

I am tempted for several reasons. We are proud that India had collaborated with Mauritius in the setting up of this Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre, years ago in 1998.

I am also tempted because of my own academic background. I am a Chemical Engineer and hold Master Degree in Biosciences.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We are discussing the wonderful periodic table which categorizes the elements found in nature in a remarkable table that brings out the similar chemical nature of different elements. It contributed significantly to the scientific understanding of our surroundings.

Nature is a unitary thing and we are parts of it. Science is a way to understand nature through a rational evidence based process. At the same time, we must remember that nature does not distinguish between physics, chemistry, biology, geology, metallurgy and so on. These are all man made constructs to focus our efforts at understanding nature.

All of you are aware of the contemporary theory for origins emerging from simple atoms and of our visible universe – the Big Bang. Starting from simple particles governed by physics, we move to heavier elements, we soon enter the realm of chemistry. The formation of rocky planets brings geologists into picture and on earth the rise of life is investigated by biologists.

However, everything around us is linked and nothing can be studied in isolation. Scientific understanding has led to many technological innovations in a wide range of fields including healthcare as was being discussed by Prof. Archana, a short while ago.

I do not wish to take much more of your time but would like to suggest that curiosity in young minds is of paramount importance to expand our understanding of this universe. To conclude, I would like to congratulate once again the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre for this wonderful initiative.

Thank you.

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